Ohanaeze Calls on Tinubu to Grant Amnesty to Pro-Biafra Agitators
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant amnesty to 1,335 repented nonviolent pro-Biafra agitators as part of the 2025 June 12 Democracy Day celebrations.
A Historic Opportunity for National Reconciliation
Ohanaeze stated that the agitators are ready to publicly surrender, renounce separatist activities, and pledge allegiance to the Federal Government during this year’s commemorative events. The group said this act would symbolize a turning point in the country’s history and a renewed commitment to national unity.
“This moment represents not only a new dawn for Nigeria but also a significant victory for democracy,” the group noted.
First Willingness for Dialogue in 55 Years
In a joint statement by Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the factional Deputy President-General, and Thompson Ohia, spokesperson for Ohanaeze, the organization revealed that for the first time since the end of the Biafra war in 1970, repented pro-Biafra activists have expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with the Federal Government.
“It has taken 16 months of sustained pressure, persuasive engagements, and international humanitarian support to bring them to this point,” the statement read.
Terms of Amnesty and Hopes for a Political Solution
Allegiance in Exchange for Justice
Ohanaeze disclosed that the agitators are seeking:
Presidential amnesty
A peaceful resolution to Southeast insecurity
Dropping of all legal charges
A political solution to secure the release of detained Igbo prisoners of conscience
These demands are rooted in long-standing grievances that trace back to the post-civil war era, with Ohanaeze urging President Tinubu to seize this rare opportunity.
June 12 as a Symbolic Moment
“June 12, 2025, offers a once-in-a-generation chance for the Federal Government to address historical injustices that have haunted the Southeast,” the group said.
Implications for National Unity and Peace
A Message of Peace to Future Agitators
Ohanaeze believes that granting amnesty to this first group of nonviolent agitators would:
Set a precedent for peaceful conflict resolution
Undermine radical ideologies tied to Biafra agitation
Signal the government’s readiness to use non-kinetic strategies over force
“President Tinubu can cement his legacy as the leader who successfully ended Biafra-related agitation through dialogue, compassion, and strategic engagement,” the statement concluded.
